By Jamie Miley
Not what Liverpool fans want to hear.
Rumours have swirled this week that Reds frontman Roberto Firmino could be jumping ship to Bayern Munich this summer.
The proposed move hinges on Bayern striker Robert Lewandowski’s mooted switch to Real Madrid. Should the Poland international move to the Spanish capital, the Bundesliga champions will pursue Firmino, according to reports.
Speculation over Lewandowski’s future has intensified this week following reports that he will attempt to ‘force through’ a move to the Bernabeu.
The Brazilian has been one of the star performers for the Reds this season, with 23 goals in all competitions and has been attracting interest from Europe’s biggest clubs after flourishing under the style of manager Jurgen Klopp.
The 25-year-old has received praise from fans and pundits due to his work rate and contribution in the final third.
Speaking on Sky Sports, former Arsenal striker Ian Wright said Bayern will attempt to snatch the Brazilian from Liverpool’s grasp if they lose Lewandowski. “They are talking about (Robert) Lewandowski to Real Madrid,” Wright said.
“If that happens Bayern want Bobby Firmino. Firmino is an excellent nine and a half. He is unbelievable.”
Firmino Infographic (PL Stats)
⚽️14 Goals
👏7 Assists
👊55 Tackles
💪16 Interceptions
🤚19 Blocked Shots
Stats via @premierleague
RT's Much Appreciated#YNWA #LFC #Liverpool pic.twitter.com/x5uYidpamK— EZGFX (@EZGFX1) March 23, 2018
Klopp will look to ward off interest in the South American by offering him a long-term contract. The German tactician believes keeping Firmino is an important part of the club’s attempts to build a side worthy of challenging for the title.
“[The new contract] is very important for both sides,” Klopp said recently.
“I think everything we are doing, the way we play, the way we give him the opportunity constantly to play, he deserves that.”
Liverpool get their Premier League campaign back on track once more this Saturday as they travel to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace.
